Health and safety focus of upcoming workshops

Program can provide tools for disabled producers to take better care of their families

Journal-Advocate staff

Posted:
01/10/2013 10:32:01 AM MST

The health and safety of agricultural workers is not only a concern for themselves, but also for their families. Often, agricultural workers feel the need to push on without help because they feel they are being strong for their families. These workers will never be able to help their families unless they take good care of themselves. If they are less efficient at work or cannot go to work, they cannot bring home an income to their families. If the farmer or rancher comes home injured or exhausted, their families cannot depend on them to complete simple tasks at home that are crucial to family life.

A worker with a debilitating disease such as rheumatoid arthritis or multiple sclerosis might have difficulties using machinery. These diseases may be worsened by excess sun exposure out on the farm. Perhaps it is challenging for the worker to climb up on a piece of equipment.

AgrAbility can help with these problems by suggesting simple equipment changes, gear modifications or different methods that could be better for their health. With the help of AgrAbility, these workers can have the strength and vigor to help manage their farm or ranch, complete repairs around the house or play catch with their kids.

Equipment changes, such as retrofitting a tractor with a swiveling seat and extra rails can sometimes make all the difference, allowing farmers and ranchers to get back to work.

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Colorado AgrAbility, a NIFA-funded program run by Colorado State University Extension and Goodwill Industries Denver, provides information and hosts local workshops for agricultural producers with disabilities about programs and tools to help them continue working in spite of their disability.

Colorado AgrAbility will host three free workshops in northeastern Colorado this winter, beginning Tuesday, Feb. 12, at the Phillips County Events Center in Holyoke. The workshop, "Gear for Working Smarter with AgrAbility," will take place from 9 a.m. to noon and includes lunch for those who pre-register at least one week prior to the workshop. Dennis Kaan, (970) 345-2287, will present. The following day, Bruce Bosley, (970) 768-6449 and Luann Boyer, (970) 542-3544, will give the workshop at the Fort Morgan Extension Office, 914 E. Railroad Ave., Fort Morgan. Workshops are also scheduled in Steamboat Springs on Jan. 16, Trinidad on Feb. 6, Pueblo on Feb. 8 and Aurora on Feb. 14.

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